Russia says Ukraine: We could fight another 21 years

Russia told Ukraine it could fight for at least another 21 years during peace talks that ended in acrimony in Istanbul.Vladimir Medinsky, a Kremlin aide who led the Russian delegation, said Moscow wanted peace but would fight “however long it takes”.

“We don’t want war, but we’re ready to fight for a year, two, three, however long it takes. We fought Sweden for 21 years. How long are you ready to fight?” he told the Ukrainian delegation.The Great Northern War, fought between Russia and Sweden, lasted for 21 years, from 1700 to 1721 during the rule of Peter the Great. Putin has previously compared himself to the former Russian emperor.

The talks, mediated by Turkey, last more than 90 minutes. The most significant outcome was an agreement on the largest prisoner of war swap of the conflict so far, with 1,000 captive troops being exchanged.However, Ukraine criticised Russia for demanding that Kyiv’s forces withdraw from four regions roughly where the front line runs. When the Ukrainian delegation protested the demands to give up four regions, Russian negotiators reportedly replied: “Next time it will be five.”

From: The Telegraph

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